Charity paddle for Emma Grandison

Alun Clarke and Des Sherliker set off on the six-day charity challenge along the Leeds Liverpool Canal on Thursday and will stop off at Botany Bay in Chorley today for a fun day, which starts at 10am.

Emma, 32, from Longton, lost her battle with cancer in February this year, leaving husband and baby Erin.

The challenge will see the pair paddle between 18 and 28 miles a day and is in aid of Rosemere Cancer Foundation and the Royal Preston Hospital’s Neonatal Unit.

Alun, of Leyland, Des, of Chorley, backup support Warren Bolton, of Lostock Hall, and John Winder, of Preston, all work for Springfields Fuels, where Emma worked.

Alun said: “We talked with her about doing this challenge and although it’s been very difficult to keep going with it since she passed away, we’re determined to do our best and keep fund-raising for charities close to Emma’s heart” Visit: www.justgiving.com/Just1MoreMiracle